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How to Pronounce Sepsis

SEP-sis

IPA: /ˈsɛp.sɪs/

SEP sis

How do you pronounce Sepsis?

Sepsis is pronounced "SEP-sis". It has 2 syllables: sep - sis. The stress falls on the first syllable, "sep".

How many syllables are in Sepsis?

Sepsis has 2 syllables: sep - sis.

What does Sepsis mean?

Sepsis is a critical, life-threatening condition where the body's response to infection becomes dysregulated and begins damaging its own tissues. It can progress to septic shock and multi-organ failure without rapid treatment.

Etymology & Word Parts

seps- putrefaction, decay Greek sepsis, rotting

-is state of, condition Greek -is

Clinical Usage

Sepsis (Sepsis-3 definition) requires suspected infection plus SOFA ≥2. Septic shock is sepsis with vasopressor requirement and lactate >2 mmol/L despite fluid resuscitation. The 1-hour sepsis bundle includes blood cultures, IV antibiotics, and IV fluids. Mortality approaches 30–40% in septic shock.

Common Mispronunciations

Straightforward: SEP-sis. Rarely mispronounced, but some say "SEP-sees" — correct ending: -sis

Where You’ll Encounter This

Emergency medicine, ICU, rapid response teams, hospitalist medicine, every inpatient setting.